Every student should focus on these 10 things

 As students go off to schools, colleges and universities , there will no doubt be moments charged with anxiety especially for those embarking on their very first year. The first few weeks can be overwhelming, and you will find yourself doubting whether you will be able to cope. Everything will seem to be in fast forward while you operate in reverse and you wonder how you will ever be able to keep up! With some organising, those stressful moments wont hang around too long if you pick up a few good tips.

You are not the first and most definitely won’t be the last. Most students experience these early angst. Some are just better at not letting it show. Developing some good strategies can however help to make the learning process a whole lot smoother.

  Here are 10 ideas that can contribute to effective learning and overall success.

 1. Use time wisely

It’s easy to get carried away with all the distractions that are readily at hand. Having a clear plan about what needs to done and how to go about it is a great way to start. Start by making a list of subjects/ courses and working out a study timetable that will help you to focus on organising ideas, making notes and doing research.

 2. X marks the spot!

Developing the right amount of discipline will go a long way to having success with your studies. Finding the right place where you can study is of paramount importance. Sofa/bed study is never a good idea as it lessens your focus and can easily lure you to sleep! Have a space set up that is comfortable (but not overly relaxing) and conducive to learning. Preferably at a desk or at the library! De-clutter your working space of things that will likely cause distraction. Have on hand all equipment and resources you are likely to need. If possible, use a computer for any research rather than opt for a mobile phone. Less distractions!

 3. How much is enough?

You will want to decide before hand what your study goals are to be. How much content should you cover over x period of time? What will success look like for you? The goals you set will be the guidelines that will help you to get the most out of your study sessions. It’s easy to be tempted to spend less time with the courses you hate and more with the ones you love. Don’t fall into that trap. Make this the other way around. You will definitely need that extra time brushing up on the content that you struggle with the most.

 4. Don’t go it alone!

It’s quite useful to have a study partner or group as it’s better if you can discuss ideas for greater clarity and understanding. Having another perspective can be really helpful especially if you are working through difficult content. Being able to explain a concept to someone helps your understanding of that concept.

 5.Take five!

Your study sessions should always include short breaks. This allows you to refresh and refuel the brain. Keeping hydrated is also key to keeping the brain alert. Taking a 10 -15 mins break after about 1 to 1.5 hr study time will allow the brain and body some needed respite and will keep you sharper over a longer period of time.

 6. Visuals help

Some topics will be more applicable than others but having visuals are a great way to help you organise content and ideas and is a great way to help you remember. Make use of diagrams, story boards and flowcharts.

 

7. Practice, practice, practice!

Every good study session will need real examples to put your knowledge to the test. Have handy as many past papers as you can get hold of. Questions are usually repeated over a period of time. Phrasing may be different but with enough practice you develop a good understanding of what to expect in an exam. Know what a top grade essay looks so that you will know what is expected of you.

 8. Make a note

Keep a diary or note pad for study sessions. Make a note of things you need to follow up on, or questions and queries that need further clarification. Books, essays or research paper you need to add to your reading list. Don’t trust your brain to remember! Review each session as this will help to assess effectiveness in order to incorporate change.

 9. Help!

Always ask for help. You will thank yourself later. It’s easy to go away from a class/ lecture feeling like a failure because you appear to be the only one who ‘didn’t get it’. Chances are you weren’t alone! The best way to ensure you stay on top of everything is to seek out those who are able to help you get unstuck. Don’t be afraid to ask for help!

 10. Fuel up

The body needs food to convert to energy for heavy lifting, so does the brain. Start you study sessions right by making sure to eat, as running on empty will only lead to fatigue and more than likely, wasted time! Good to eat foods/snacks that are healthy rather that those that will usually have high concentration of sugar, salt or fat that can lead to fatigue.

 

Taking the time to plan and prepare will have a great impact on the success of your outcomes. It might seem hard and may get a little bit daunting but with the right mindset those goals are closer than you think!